GENERATIONAL

Project 52-3 Being Productive

2012-01-26T00:05:00.000-06:00

The kit is by Saxon Holt and is called "Bee Scrappy!" It's very cute.

Today I was very productive. I made 4 more cards - yes I am on a card kick. My census project is moving along. And I scrapped two pages. In scrapbooking, scrapping pages is a good thing!

Project 52-3 It's ALL About Me!

2012-01-25T00:05:00.000-06:00

Those of you who follow my blogs know that I was diagnosed with diabetes last June. Talk about a lifestyle change. Anyway, I found a picture from last year and I took one this morning for comparison. The one thing I don't like is that my office lighting makes my hair look red. Usually fluorescent lighting makes my hair look green! Yes, I've dropped over 40 pounds and it is starting to show. The hair cut is the same even though I am wearing it a little different in an attempt to let it grow out.

Project 52 - Week 3: My Memories

2012-01-22T11:45:00.002-06:00

Yes, I can be sarcastic. And silly. For the most part, I do not add buttons to scrapbook pages. Sometimes to cards. Yesterday I sorted through my button collection - I started collecting the buttons that come with new clothes, etc. Most are pretty plain, but they are pretty interesting nonetheless. Hence this page.

Project 52-2: I'm Still Here!

2012-01-21T00:01:00.005-06:00

Things around here have been crazy and I opted not to publish any blogs on Wednesday in protest of SOPA. But here I am back again. Today's image makes me happy! I got my replacement Sizzix eclips and I am back in business. I spent the day - well most of it - doing paper scrapbooking of a book I started for my older daughter. That should explain the page. I used the freebie mini-kit from Sweet Blossom Designs available at the Design Shop on My Memories.

Project 52-2 It Figures!

2012-01-17T22:56:00.003-06:00

Hubby and I watch one network television show every week - Body of Proof. Thanks to Charter Cable - we missed it tonight because the picture kept going in and out. Yeah, I am one of the customers who reported the problem earlier in the day. So the TV is dark.

Project 52-Week Two: The Gryffindor Room!

2012-01-16T21:00:00.002-06:00

No my DH and I DO NOT live in Gryffindor Tower at Hogwarts - they do after all separate the girls from the guys there. However, It was really starting to take on a distinctly Gryffindor-ish look once I crocheted the red and gold afghan.

DH and I found the red sheets on sale at Belk's here in town today. I have always wanted red sheets, but knew they would have to more or less match the comforter and afghan. The light was bouncing all over the sheets, but I couldn't have come up with a better color.

So now you know my dirty little secret - I love buying sheets. And towels, but sheet sets are my fave!
Copyright 2008-2012, ACK, for Generational

Sunday's Speed Scrap

2012-01-16T11:14:00.002-06:00

Thanks Jessica, at My Memories for hosting another great Speed Scrap. And I really appreciate the heads up for number of photos and what we're going to do with them.

My parents were married 56+ years. Quite an accomplishment in this day and age of multiple marriages, divorces and let's-not-even-bother with getting married. We surprised them with a cruise!

Sadly, dad passed away in March of 2003 and mom in December 2007. This page was for them!

Copyright 2008-2012, ACK, for Generational

Project 52-2 My Memories

2012-01-15T21:02:00.001-06:00

I really need to find new subjects for photos. It's just so darn cold out! Sometimes I feel like my diabetes is running my life. Gotta watch my diet, watch my carbs, watch the clock to take my blood sugar. Hopefully, I will continue to keep it under control with diet and exercise and not medication.

Project 52 - Week 2 My Memories

2012-01-14T23:41:00.000-06:00

Woo Hoo! I am writing this after attending the My Memories Workshop (9 pm to Midnight EST.) I'm glad I don't live in the Eastern time zone any more. Otherwise, this post would be late! As it is, I completely forgot about taking my picture and scrambled to get one. It actually turned out pretty well. One of the topics was using page builder templates and designer templates. I used a page builder template sampler for today's photo. And I did not know you could change the background papers in the designer templates. I'm going to have to give that a try! I used the Candy Fairway and the Princess Diva packs just for something different.

Thanks Lisa J. for a very informative workshop!

Copyright 2008-2012, ACK, for Generational

Project 52-1 My Memories

2012-01-13T19:51:00.000-06:00

I've completed the first week of Project 52. Whew! Granted, I don't always remember to take a picture, but its getting a little better.

Today's page kind of encompasses what I've been working on. The sheets at the top right are census sheets. The genealogist in me is in a scramble to get them entered into my database and everything up-to-date BEFORE the 1940 census is released. As you can see, I can and do multitask!

Copyright 2008-2012, ACK, for Generational

Freebie Friday! - My Memories Suite

2012-01-13T00:05:00.000-06:00

Are you new to scrapbooking? Want to get started by not sure how to go about it? Just bought My Memories Suite, version 3 and want to play with it? The answer is this "suite" set of quick pages that are yours exclusively from My Memories for a limited time. Not only will you download the quick pages, but you also get the papers and embellishments included on the quick pages so that you can stretch your two pages into as many as you want. And don't forget you can flip these pages, rotate them, mirror them to give you a great variety that is color coordinated.

If you haven't tried My Memories yet, try the trial version that can be downloaded here. If you like what you see, use my STMMMS188876 code to get $10 off the full version! Just click on the blinkie on the right side of the page!

You can down load these quick pages here.

Happy Scrapbooking!

Copyright 2008-2012, ACK, for Generational

Project 52-1 My Memories

2012-01-12T19:22:00.002-06:00

I have lots of ideas for photos, if only I could remember them, or remember to take the picture at least. This picture was taken while it was still light enough to get a picture of the dusting of snow. There's a bit more now, and if I don't see any more this year, I won't be sad. There is sure a huge different between having a yearly average of 40 inches versus an average of 8 inches. This snowfall will close schools for Friday. If you saw some of the roads the buses travel, you would understand. I don't like driving them in nice sunny weather!

I used Candy Fairway Pack (Pepmint) a freebie in the My Memories store. The shape is a little more involved than what you see, and is filled with another Candy Fairway paper. The snowflakes are from Winter Dreams.

Copyright 2008-2012, ACK, for Generational

Project 52-1 My Memories - Bye Tweety!

2012-01-11T23:58:00.003-06:00

It's a sad day when I can no longer get the size refills for my little address book. It's time to replace it.

Copyright 2008-2012, ACK, for Generational

Project 52 - Day 4 - My Memories

2012-01-10T10:20:00.000-06:00

This is actually beginning to be fun. I've been waiting for my DH to pull out his iPad so I could get a picture of him with it. He's a very low tech kind of guy, but had been eying the iPad for a few months. He bought it the day after Christmas. And he tries new stuff on it.

The page was done with the Refresh mini kit by The Brown Owl that I picked up on the January Blog Train.

Copyright 2008-2012, ACK, for Generational

Project 52- day 3!

2012-01-09T23:17:00.000-06:00

Okay, three days into this and I am questioning my photo subjects. Ah well.

Younger daughter blew into town yesterday for a hair appointment today. She had several inches chopped off . That about says it all! I took pieces of a couple kits from the January Blog Train "Refresh."

Speed Scrap Sunday - My Memories

2012-01-09T00:05:00.000-06:00

This is from yesterday's speed scrap over at the My Memories Facebook page! I missed last week's and even forgot to look for the directions. Older pictures are a little closer to hand these days.

Project 52 - Day 2 - My Memories

2012-01-08T20:15:00.000-06:00

Day 2 of Project 52 - I almost forgot to take my picture. The paper and embellishments are from Princess Diva. The word art was done by me and I used the lace pattern from the left. Kind of silly, but fun.

Project 52 - My Memories Suite

2012-01-07T11:31:00.002-06:00

Okay, I will admit that I am a little jealous of bloggers who are able to commit to posting a photo a day every day for 365 (or 366) days. This year, at the My Memories Blog they have started Project 52. Yes, that's right a 52 week project and this weeks challenge is to take a picture daily to capture the moment. This resonated with me since I failed to take one picture of the family gathered for Christmas. Now that I think of it, I should have given the camera to DH or one of my daughters and said TAKE PICTURES. But I didn't. I didn't even think of it because I was busy preparing dinner with the help of younger daughter. This year, I hope it will be different. One can only hope, eh?

If you read my earlier post, you will see that I am also an avid scrapbooker. Today's pictures kind of reflect how I feel, even though no human appears in them! You'll also recognize them from my earlier post!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

What I've Been Doing This Year

2012-01-07T10:28:00.000-06:00

The day after Christmas, I ordered a "gift" for myself .. a full-sized craft cutting machine. Since September of 2010, I've been using a Cricut original by Provocraft and Sure-Cuts-A-Lot (SCAL). But as well all know, Provocraft and Sure-Cuts-A-Lot came to an agreement and all support for SCAL and Cricut was deleted. Well, I can still use SCAL on the baby bug, but I can still only cut 6 x 12. Which is more like 11.75 and 5.75. It was time, I felt, for a full sized cutter.

After months of hesitating, researching and recommendations from other bloggers and crafters, I settled on the Sizzix eClips. The thing I like about the eClips, is that it can perform feats of Magic! It has a laser preview, it has print 2 cut (print on your printer, cut on eClips.) It was crisp and clean. And Sizzix allowed Craft Edge to develop eCAL software exclusively for the eClips. So if you are not using the handheld controller for the eClips - you don't even need to load the cartridge.

OMG, I was so surprised last Saturday when it was delivered. I immediately sat down and began to work on an album of wedding photos from my niece's wedding last November. I did ten pages in that - and oh, what a pleasure it was to cut 12 x 12 paper. I cut chipboard that I'd been saving from hubby's last shirt purchase and the letters I made with it came out so crisp and clean.

Then I started on Christmas pictures for Older Daughter's album/scrapbook. It was in the middle of the second page that I experienced what only a few other scrappers have experienced - the machine stopped in mid-cut and turned itself off. Seriously. A call to Sizzix (Ellison) and it has been determined that it needs to go in for tests and I am confident they'll either fix it or replace it. I am so sad. Last night I received the emails from Sizzix and FedEx for shipping it back. It's all set to go on Monday.

I was able to finish the second Christmas page - with the Cricut, because the SVG files were smaller ones. They are from the Christmas Scrapbook pages kit from SVG Cuts. I ordered the eClips through Punkin' Patch Stamps because they simply have the best price around. SVG Cuts and Punkin' Patch Stamps are Autumn Creative Companies.

Back to digital scrapbooking, while I await return of my eClips. I hope the withdrawal isn't too painful.

Copyright 2009-2012, ACK, for Generational

Freebie Friday - My Memories Suite

2012-01-06T00:05:00.000-06:00

You can down load these quick pages here.

Happy Scrapbooking!

Copyright 2012, ACK, for Generational

Bye-Bye 2011

2012-01-02T00:05:00.000-06:00

I can't believe 2011 is gone! I'm always glad to see the new year in and 2012 is no exception. 2011 was a year of really low lows and some really great highs. DH and I have come to terms with our diseases and are both taking steps to improve our overall condition. That is always a good thing. It certainly has given me the nudge to lose weight and 2011 has ended with a 41 pound weight loss. I've exercised more this year than any year since we moved here. Now if the weather would cooperate a little more.

This was the year of crafting almost continuously. Before 2011, I did the occasional craft project, but in late 2010 I bought a Cricut - the original one - the babybug. All I can say, that I was really disappointed with Provocraft's lawsuit against Craft Edge who developed software to allow you to use outside svg files without spending a fortune on cartridges. Also, the quality of the cuts left something to be desired. Then came Sizzix, who embraced Craft Edge and allowed them to develop a program exclusively for the Sizzix which has such great features. They are so great, I ordered one. And I got a great deal on it. I ordered it from Punkin Patch Stamps (an Autumn Creative company). This is the same company that owns SVGCuts. I've enjoyed watching all the You Tube videos that I can find on the eclips. Also, the eclips cartridges are much cheaper, so if I find some I really like, I may even purchase them. In the meantime, I am making a wish list for SVGCuts. I have to insert here that over the weekend, I had some questions about the eclips, shipping etc., and Leo was kind enough to take the time to answer my emails. I didn't really expect it.

The other thing that kept me busy, especially after September, was being allowed to use My Memories Suite, and review it*. And I got to keep the program. I had been using Scrapbook Factory Deluxe, v. 4. It was okay, but it really didn't work that well with outside images. The internal images could only be used with their program. Not so with MMS. They allow me to use all kinds of different images, especially PNGs and JPEGs. There are a lot of freebie kits out there and I have enjoyed finding them. And My Memories comes loaded with some great kits. And they offer free kits and quick pages in their design shop. There are also designer templates for you to use if you really have problems coming up with page ideas. I had so much fun that hubby and daughters each got memory books for Christmas. 2012 promises to be a very crafty year around here. I can't wait for that Sizzix to be delivered.

Look for another giveaway in the New Year.

*Interested in purchasing My Memories Suite? Click on the My Memories image on the right and use my code STMMMS18876 to get $10 off the purchase of the full program.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Happy New Year! 2012

2012-01-01T00:05:00.000-06:00

My Memories - 2011 Top Ten

2011-12-30T10:29:00.000-06:00

This week's challenge on the My Memories Blog is to scrap your 2011 Top Ten! Okay, I didn't have that fantastic a year but easily came up with my top ten. They are shown here in no particular order, although younger daughter driving up with her packed car and cat in tow in October during her move from Michigan to Tennessee is really high up on the list. Being married to my wonderful DH for 32 years is also really high up on the list. Added to the list are the new family members, Ryan, Finn and Kaylee. Ryan married into my highly crazy family and Finn and Kaylee are the newest generation. My title: The Best is Yet to Come is exactly how I feel about 2012.

My page is done with Marie H's "Clementine" kit. I can't believe how much I use orange since I started digitally scrapbooking. I don't even like orange as a rule, but it makes beautiful pages.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Freebie Friday - My Memories v 3

2011-12-30T00:05:00.000-06:00

You can down load these quick pages here.

Happy Scrapbooking!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

One Crafty Thing After Another

2011-12-29T00:05:00.000-06:00

I had fun before Christmas working on some Christmas stuff. One of the things I made was these little gift card boxes, made with the round Laughing Cow cheese boxes and one of the poinsettia SVGS from SVGCuts. I also used it to make Christmas cards. I just glued Christmas paper to the box, trimmed it with ribbon and attached the poinsettia.

Then I made Christmas cards for daughters and DH. This is one of them. I did one on green cardstock, one on white and one on red.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T00:05:00.000-06:00

Greeting done with My Memories Suite v 3 and "Blue Christmas" from Trixie Scraps.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Freebie Friday - My Memories

2011-12-23T00:05:00.000-06:00

Are you new to scrapbooking? Want to get started by not sure how to go about it? Just bought My Memories Suite, version 3 and want to play with it. The answer is this "suite" set of quick pages that are yours exclusively from My Memories for a limited time. Not only will you download the quick pages, but you also get the papers and embellishments included on the quick pages so that you can stretch your two pages into as many as you want. And don't forget you can flip these pages, rotate them, mirror them to give you a great variety that is color coordinated.

Click here for the kit!

Happy Scrapbooking!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Something That Isn't a Scrapbook Page!

2011-12-22T17:26:00.001-06:00

Last night I downloaded a freebie from SVGCuts*. The kit is for one piece boxes. They are just the easiest thing to make, and if you are like me and your cutter is small - I have the original Cricut - you are in luck. SVGCuts has included the patterns for 12 x 6 mats. Since these work best with double sided paper/card stock, that is what I used. One has trim that was cut on the same paper and a tiny yellow brad and the other, lacy edged one has added gold bling.

*available for a limited time.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Speed Scrap Sunday - December 18th, 2011

2011-12-19T10:06:00.000-06:00

Another great speed scrap last night over at the My Memories Facebook page! I love it when Jessica gives us a heads up on how many photos we need and what we'll need to do with them. In this case, I chose oldies but goodies. The papers and word art are by Word Art World by Jennifer and is called Remember. The flowers and ribbon, stitches and ric-rac were pulled in from other kits.

The main photo was taken in 1989 shortly before the lady in red (Mary) gave birth to her daughter. It was a surprise for my parents. The smaller pictures were taken in the mid 1950's, about 1964 and 1968.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

It's Freebie Friday - My Memories Suite v3

2011-12-16T00:05:00.000-06:00

It's Friday and I've selected another pair of quick pages for you from My Memories. Clicking on the first image will take you to the freebie!

Don't forget you get the elements used to make the quick pages - that way you can tweak them to get a slightly altered 4 page set if you so desire!

Don't forget that you can rotate the pages, too. It gives you a slightly different look. This page has been rotated 90 degrees. And then it was rotated 90 degrees more.

Speed Scrap!

2011-12-12T00:05:00.000-06:00

This was done on December 11th on the My Memories Facebook page. The subject is our youngest grandkitty, Belle. Younger daughter brings her to visit. She's a lap cat, but I sometimes thinks she is a dog because she begs and rolls over.

You might not believe that it was accidental that I chose the paper with circles and then found one of the instructions was to add circles to the page! The papers are all from Happy Go Lucky collection.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

The Dog-Cat

2011-12-10T00:05:00.000-06:00

Our newest non-human family member (don't tell her) is Belle, younger daughter's 3 year-old-adopted cat. But she must be part dog, because she does tricks. She begs. Oh yes, as soon as you spend more than 30 seconds in the kitchen, she is there begging for whatever you are working on. And you can get her to beg nicely for a treat. Really. Also, we caught her rolling over several times. And she sits under the table while you eat hoping for crumbs. She won't eat them, but she waits for them anyway.

The cat part of her is elusive. Just try to get a good picture of her. While she expresses some interest in the camera, she won't hold still for a camera shot.

Finally, we decided a bribe was in order, so that we could get her to beg for a snack. It worked. Belle loves her snacks. You can even get her to eat the snack right out of your hand.

Freebie Friday from My Memories

2011-12-09T00:05:00.000-06:00

I have another exclusive quick page set for you from our friends at My Memories. I thought I'd tell you how I come up with the pictures for these pages. Usually, when I design a page, I have a picture in mind for it, so the page is totally designed with the picture in mind. With the quick pages, I look at the pages, how it is set up for photos, the colors and then pick the photos. Sometimes, like this week, that comes easy. Other weeks, it's a struggle. And since these quick pages are meant for use as two-page spreads, which I admit, I usually only do with these quick pages, it can be difficult.

But, as I said, this one was easy. My kids are crazy. Somewhere along the line they decided they were tired of the sweet sister photos and started hugging each other - viciously! You know, those are some of my favorite pictures. I've picked out some of my favorites for this two page spread.

Freebie Kit

This is what I've done with the pages.

Christmas Traditions

2011-12-07T17:10:00.001-06:00

What more appropriate kit could I use for this week's My Memories Blog Challenge, than a Christmas Traditions kit I picked up on the Blog Train. This particular kit, "Sugar Plums" by designs by Krista really tickled my fancy. I love the colors of this kit and who wouldn't love that cute little gingerbread boy peeking out from behind the gifts?

Since most of my family's traditions center around food, I almost didn't enter this challenge. Then I took a look at the stockings hung from the mantle and knew I had my "tradition." You see, this is the first year in many years all the stockings and stocking holders have been in the same place. Our oldest daughter moved away from home and down to Raleigh, North Carolina in 2004. That year, I decorated dollar store stockings for her, her roommate and our younger daughter. Those are the large stockings on the left, which already came with embellishments - I only had to put their names on with foam letters and puffy paint. Their stocking holders - a kitty - Mandy - and a dog - Max were named for our former pets. The stockings on the right are mine and my husband's. I have wanted to get him a new stocking for years, but he loves his Goofy stocking.

This is also the first year since 2004 that we are all living in the same state. An old tradition in a new state.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Speed Scrap!

2011-12-06T00:05:00.000-06:00

It's getting crazy around here - what with rain, Christmas decorating, and more rain. And then there is Sunday Speed Scrap over at the My Memories FB page. Jessica fortunately told us we would need a landscape oriented photo and so I chose one of my niece and her new hubby. Yes, they've been the subject of a scrap page before. Last one was utilizing "fancy pants" font and I used a quick page. This one I laid out on my own.

All I really added was the title and the photo. Not bad. Below is the one I did on Sunday. Each one of these speed scraps pushes me just beyond my comfort zone adding elements. The first one was done using MMS version 2 and the bottom was done with version 3, which is a little more user friendly, I think.

My Memories - Card Making Tutorial

2011-12-05T00:05:00.000-06:00

Are you still working on your Christmas cards? I have a great tutorial inspired by My Memories Suite. This is particularly sweet if you have upgraded to version 3.

Of course I had to check out this tutorial for myself. It's by Barb Eastwick, and is very easy.

First, get yourself version 3 of My Memories. If you don't have it, you can get $10 off the cost of the full program using my code STMMMS18876 when ordering. If you do have it, upgrade it. Worth every penny. (This part is my idea, not Barb's!)

Second, once you download and install the program, it will prompt you for a new album. Choose your size, which can be either a landscape or portrait album and you want the 4-1/4 x 5-1/2 inch size (5-1/2 x 4-1/4 if you choose landscape.)

Third, choose a background paper. Keep in mind when you choose a background paper and any embellishment, you have to comply with the terms of use (TOU.) Mostly, these terms mean you can use for your personal use - like making cards to send to family and friends - but NOT selling them. I chose a paper from Barbara Marcusi that I got on the December Blog Train. If you choose a paper and decide it isn't write you can always delete it or use the Change Background tool on the menu (Arrange > Change Background.)

Fourth, choose elements, word art, what ever you'd like on the front of your card. I chose to make a frame using the Shapes - Frames option. Then I colored it using a gradient. I also did a square shape that you probably won't pick up on, to use just under the frame. I used the color picker, picking out the burgundy in the foreground paper and then fading it a bit. I wanted the design to show through. Finally I added my Word Art, "Joy to the World" from "Holiday Snows." The ribbon came from 3 Li'l Monsters, and the snowflake was also from Barb Mancusi.

When I was done, the first thing I did was save it! Then I clicked on the SHARE Album button on the control panel, export pages, and exported it as a jpeg file.

When I go to the folder where I have saved this image, I will select print:

I'll select the option to print a page of 3.5 x 5 photos.

So your screen should look like this:

Select your quality, the type of paper, and print. Once you have printed them, cut them out. They are sized to center on a 4-1/4 x 5-1/2 card. You might want to position some nice holiday paper behind them to camouflage the white space. Add some bling or other 3-D element and you have four really nice cards.

Barb has put together a great PDF for this and you can download it here.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

The Blog Train

2011-12-03T00:05:00.000-06:00

No, I'm not a participating designer. To be honest, I'm not a designer at all, but I do love freebies! This month you can hop on the Blog Train and visit 90 blogs and download free holiday kits. These people are so talented. Be sure to visit the blogs and leave some blog love! I guarantee that you will have trouble choosing which kit to use for whatever holiday project you have in mind. And please, be sure to abide by the Terms of Use.

Christmas light a freebie last year from Northridge.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories Suite - Freebie Friday

2011-12-02T00:05:00.000-06:00

I have another great selection for you of a two page spread from My Memories Suite. Remember you get the quick pages and the papers and elements used to make them.

I know some people are confused by the quick pages, thinking they are backgrounds. They are EMBELLISHMENTS, so you add them that way, and then add your picture and send your picture to the back.

This is the page I've selected for you this week. I really like how the bottom one is divided. There are so many things you can do with that, with a little imagination. You can download these here. Please remember that these are limited offers and exclusive for me to share with you!

Here is an example of what can be done with these quick pages.

Hope you enjoy them.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

December Freebie Calendar

2011-11-30T00:05:00.001-06:00

This December calendar was made with My Memories Suite v.2. I exported it as a .jpeg as a small image. Enjoy!

So Did I Really Accomplish Anything?

2011-11-28T00:46:00.001-06:00

Let's face it, holiday weekends are almost always a total washout if you want to get anything done. Really, I felt lucky to get the house clean for company - younger daughter and her cat. They showed up on Wednesday and Thursday, of course was Thanksgiving, which I spent cooking. It was 60+ degrees here and by the time dinner was done, I was ready to put shorts on.

The day after Thanksgiving, was of course, Black Friday. No, I didn't participate in the crazy sales this year. I did it once and that has cured me forever. My wonderful DH, however, used to get up early the day after Thanksgiving and shop for my gifts. Even he participated in cyber shopping this year. Mine is almost done, just have to pick up an item set aside for me and I will be done. I've kept up with the wrapping so that is out of the way.

Unfortunately, the weather does not want to cooperate enough for us to get our Christmas stuff out of the shed or any lights up outside. This incessant rain will make me crazy yet.

I did get the chance Sunday night to participate in My Memories FB page Speed Scrap. It was fun, and I layered away. The page was mostly done with "Joyeux Noel" by Becca. I did the word art for "2010" but The Merry and Christmas were already for me to plop on the page. This was done, incidentally with My Memories Suite version 3 which was released last week. Some of the changes are big, some subtle, but they really make it easier to use.

If you are observant, you will notice that I redesigned the blog header. I'm still tweaking it, hope to get it a little smaller yet, and plan to change it out regularly! So I guess the weekend wasn't a total loss!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Freebie Friday - My Memories Suite - Share the Fun!

2011-11-25T00:05:00.000-06:00

The quick pages this week are awesome! The ones I have chosen really didn't need anything except a little text and a picture. I love the color, the texture, simply everything about the pages. And you can get them free over at My Memories here. Remember, the kits I offer are available for only a short period of time. And don't forget the kits come with all the elements from the quick pages, so you can tweak it if you so desire.

This is what I've done with the pages. I think they make an awesome two page spread, don't you?

My Memories Wednesday Challenge - Why I Am Thankful

2011-11-24T00:05:00.000-06:00

Every year, we've been thankful for our family and our health. This year has seen a big change in my health and my DH. You see, this year, I was diagnosed with diabetes and my DH with Parkinson's Disease. He calls it our wake-up call. So yes, we are thankful for that wake-up call. My page "I Am Thankful" says it all.

My Memories Suite, Version 3

2011-11-23T09:13:00.001-06:00

You know how you mean to do something, but you have to complete step A & B first before you can do step C? That's how my week is going. On Monday, My Memories released version 3 of the best scrapbooking software ever! On Monday, I eagerly awaited my upgrade notice. And waited. And waited. Because I am part of a select group of affiliates, it took a little longer. I finally received my cherished email yesterday, signed into my account and downloaded version 3. And started installing.

You know how things go wrong? Well, it looked to be a long install, so DH and I had lunch, did some Christmas shopping, picked up some last minute items at the grocery store. On the way home, I saw a competitor of our cable company and said to my DH "Uh-oh, looks like we're going to have problems with the cable." It always happens. Sure enough, got home to find that the download aborted because the connection was lost. So I clicked on the icon to install and after two hours it failed.

By this time, it was dinner time. We had dinner, I decided I was going to delete the file I downloaded and try again. File downloaded, install commenced and took 6 interminably long hours. I have cable modem, it should not have taken that long. Finally around 1:30 a.m. I opened my program. I. Love. It. It has some great new features and enhancements. The best new feature for me is the calendar one. I am going to delete my old Calendar Creator program, which has become so difficult to use. And I don't need it any more. I can do everything I did in Calendar Creator better in my MMS3 software without having to relearn the program every time I want to use it.

This page was created with MMS3 at 2 am. I wanted to get an idea of working with some of the new features and figured I should do a page for my DH's book. Shhh! It's a surprise!

A little birdie told me that on Cyber Monday, there are going to be some great deals in the My Memories Design Shop. Go here to visit the web site. If you don't already have an account with them, you can create one and save the items you want to your wish list.

Remember, if you want to purchase the program, please use my STMMMS code on the right side of the page and save!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories Suite, Version 3

2011-11-21T18:50:00.001-06:00

Today was the release date for the new version of My Memories Suite (version 3.) While I am still waiting for my special update code yet, I have seen what is new in this version, thanks to Lisa Jurrens' helpful videos. Here, however, is the What's New in Version 3 link. If you don't yet own My Memories, you can download a trial version. Then, if you do decide to purchase it, use my code, shown on this page to get a $10 discount.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

A Little Birdie Told Me ...

2011-11-19T07:51:00.001-06:00

A Little Birdie Told Me that version 3 of My Memories Suite is being released on Monday. Sweet Suite! I for one can't wait because this program is so easy to use and my pages are simply gorgeous dahling!

If you are interested in version 3 or bought version 2 very recently, watch your email for a special upgrade notice. If you have been holding off? Wait until Monday and use my code in the sidebar and save $10.

I'm thinking I better get some blog posts written for next week so I can play AND get ready for Thanksgiving!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Freebie Friday From My Memories

2011-11-18T00:05:00.000-06:00

This week's two page spread is another colorful quick page duo with accompanying embellishments. I mean, how easy is it to load up these pages and add your photographs, journaling, etc. Or use the included embellishments to build your own pages if you want to tweak it a bit! I love it. In this case I just added a couple of tags and a ribbon. And the photos of course!

You can pick up the freebie here.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

WEDNESDAY CHALLENGE - FAMILY TRADITIONS

2011-11-17T09:55:00.001-06:00

Over at the My Memories blog this week's Wednesday Challenge is to do a page(s) for a family tradition. Well, it seems that the only time of year we could all be together - more or less - was Christmas. Therefore, my Family Tradition page is photos of our family from 1954 to 2000. The first time I tried to do this page, I crashed My Memories. I think I blew it when I tried to add shadows to all the text. So I started over. This time I used the Joyeux Noel kit by Becca. Its a beautiful kit. The Word Art is done with XMAS LIGHTS font from dafont which you can download for free here. I filled it with an image of one of the papers from Joyeux Noel. For those of you who are hybrid scrapbookers, as I am, it cuts beautifully with a sharp blade on my Cricut.

Tomorrow is Freebie Friday - be sure to check back for the free pages.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories - Freebie Friday

2011-11-11T00:05:00.000-06:00

I love the pages that I chose for you this week to receive for free from My Memories! Yep, that's right for FREE! I really enjoyed putting together this two page spread. Remember, you get the quick pages AND the separate elements in this set, so you can tweak it if you feel the need.

The text on the picture on the first picture was done by choosing to use text shape - in this case an outside square - and sizing the text window to fit the frame! You can download the pages here.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories - Hats Off Challenge

2011-11-10T22:25:00.001-06:00

I spent the last day digging through scanned photos for pictures with hats. That was a challenge. My kids loved playing dress-up when they stayed at their Grandma's house. They would raid her stock of knit hats and scarves and as you can see, my older daughter had unusual taste in purses! Here it is!

Challenged by Digital Scrapbooking Day, part two

2011-11-09T00:05:00.000-06:00

Whew! You can see by yesterday's post that I was challenged. But wait! There are more! All these challenges took place at the My Memories FB page here. And I didn't tell you that they were also giving prizes - not for the challenges, but for answering questions and stuff. It was lots of fun. Most of the time we were with family or driving, so I didn't catch up until late Sunday.

So this is where I am probably totally out of sequence. There was the "What is your Current Favorite Kit?" challenge. My current favorite kit is "When the Heart Sings." Here is the link to it in the My Memories Design shop. The subjects are my two daughters. They both have gorgeous smiles.

Another challenge was to use the "Fancy Pants" font in any layout. I cheated and used the "Happy Place" quick page - which is a freebie at MyMemories design shop. The subjects are my niece and new nephew-in-law whose wedding we attended on Saturday. I used the font to put their names and the date on the page and added the picture.

Then there was the "Scrap that tune" challenge. It was actually pretty easy. I used the "Scenes from Summer" kit. That cute couple is my DH and me!

The final scrap was the "I Survived Digital Scrapbooking Day" challenge. The challenge here was to do it with a fun picture of yourself. Instead, I morphed myself into the owl. The owl was cuter before! The kit that I used for this one was "Silly Autumn from Leelou Designs.

There is always something going on over at My Memories FB page. IF you want to see all the wonderful pages made possible with this software, stop in any day and you will see our brag pictures posted on their wall.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Challenged by Digital Scrapbooking Day!

2011-11-08T00:05:00.000-06:00

I survived Digital Scrapbooking Day last weekend. Actually, the only reason I did survive it was the wedding of my niece, Marie to her fiance of several years, Ryan. It was a great wedding and I snitched some of the photos from the wedding to use in last weeks challenges, which I finally caught up on!

These challenges are -- well they are challenging. I tried to think outside the box as much as possible. Which taxed my already tired brain. Last night I finally caught up with the challenges and now I will share them with you.

The first was Altered Speed Scrap. For this challenge, you actually got all the directions at once and therefore had a little bit of time to organize your brain. And it was pretty specific about the pictures touching and the number of elements and journaling.

Then there was another speed scrap challenge using just one picture and adding elements to the page.

While DH and I were attending our niece's wedding, there were a couple other challenges, which I finally completed. One was the Journaling Challenge in which you had to journal about how the photo(s) you chose made you feel. This was hard for me. I really hate journaling.

More Tomorrow!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

A Special Card

2011-11-07T00:05:00.000-06:00

One of my nieces got married last weekend and I made a card for their wedding in My Memories Suite software. Half my problem when making cards is figuring what to say. I think it worked well.

Digital Scrapbooking Day!

2011-11-05T00:05:00.000-05:00

Last night over at MyMemories FB Page there was a special speed scrap challenge. I am so into those. Even if you still love hands on scrapbooking, its nice to see all the neat layouts people come up with.

I've told y'all how much I love this program - My Memories Suite, v2 many times. How would you like to get the program for $9.97 - instead of saving $10, you can get the whole program for $9.97 AND get $10.00 to spend in the Design Shop. Just enter the promo code FB8000 in the box when you order the program. Hurry though, because this offer ends Sunday, November 6th. Go to My Memories and order it now!

Oh, and here is my speed scrap page!

Freebie Friday - My Memories Suite

2011-11-04T00:05:00.000-05:00

One of the great things about being able to offer you all free stuff every week, is that I get to play more with the software and that is such a hardship - NOT !! Generally, I look at the quick pages and try to figure out which pictures will suit that layout or the pattern in the paper. You'll see that there are some color similarities to last week's pages.

The pictures I chose go back to 2001 when my DH and I were exploring possible retirement spots. One of these trips led us to Knoxville, Tennessee. These shots just seem to fit the whimsical nature of this paper. While we didn't choose Knoxville, we did end up in Tennessee.

You can download this free kit here. Remember you get all the elements included in this kit too. Enjoy!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories Wednesday Challenge - Halloween!

2011-11-02T15:01:00.001-05:00

I'm sure there will be lots of pages submitted in this challenge showing cute little ones all decked out at their cutest and/or scariest! Since my kids are mostly grown up - in age if not in spirit - I submit this page of my oldest daughter way back in 1997 and then again about 2009 or 2010. Halloween was always one of my favorite holidays and I adored dressing up. When our kids came along, I couldn't wait to dress them up and take them out. I'm glad they still enjoy Halloween at their ripe old ages. This page was done with Carving Pumpkins which I won last week!

Speed Scrap Sunday

2011-11-01T11:01:00.000-05:00

Sundays at 7pm Central, there is a speed scrap over at MyMemories FB page that I have been participating in the last three weeks. This past Sunday was complicated. First you had to start off with 3-5 photos with one much larger than the rest, then 5 papers, stitches, staples, ribbons, and cluster embellishments and a journaling tag! Whew! I have never used that many papers, stitches or even used staples before. This is how it turned out. I find I learn so much during these Speed Scraps and it is so much fun to see how other scrappers' pages turned out!

This program is so easy to use and the kits are beautiful. There is something for every occasion and it is so easy to tweak your page using your own photos for background paper.

If you are interested in the program, use my code to purchase it. You will get $10 off the program and a code for $10 off in the online store!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

November Calendar Freebie

2011-10-31T00:05:00.002-05:00

Made with Scrapbook Factory Deluxe v 3.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Speed Scrap with Scraps N' Pieces

2011-10-29T00:05:00.000-05:00

I did the Speed Scrap a day late over at the Scraps N' Pieces forum and it was huge fun! Also I got to work at my own pace, which is slowwwww. It's hard to believe I've only been scrapbooking just over a year - at least consistently. The only thing I did differently was not using a plain background. Because I love this paper from My Memories Suite - its from their "Looking Back" kit and is intersect brown. The other papers are pulled from other categories. Usually I am not a glitter person, but I like the scatters a lot!

Freebie Friday with My Memories

2011-10-28T00:17:00.000-05:00

Yes, it is that time again and I have selected a very nice kit for you this week. But first I have to tell you something I neglected the last two weeks. You not only download the quick pages, but you get the separate elements of the pages so that you can design your own page. That's what I've done with this week's freebie. Here is a picture of the quick pages you receive. This is one of my favorite color combinations.

Below is the page that I made with the elements I received. The pennant was my addition. And yes, you can add anything you want to the quick page or the page you create. I just wanted you to see how versatile these freebies are.

If you don't own My Memories Suite v 2, you should really consider purchasing it. If you use my code you will get a $10 discount on the program. My Memories has wonderful, inexpensive kits for purchase too!

Here is the link for the Freebies Page.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories Blog - Wednesday Challenge Oct 26

2011-10-27T00:05:00.000-05:00

I love the "No Faces Challenge" on yesterday's My Memories Blog. I knew I had lots of pictures with people facing away from the camera. So here is my entry in the challenge - taken in September 2011. The Losson Nature Preserve is a great park in Erie county, New York with miles of walking trails. And most of them are pretty well marked. Not this one though. Or we just missed the linkup to the next trail. We ended up retracing our steps several times and then ended up driving to the other side and approaching from the trails on that side. It was great fun!

And, I just had to make this a two-page spread.

Speed Scrap - Part Two

2011-10-26T00:05:00.000-05:00

I couldn't leave the Speed Scrap page alone and liked the idea of using another picture for the background.So I changed it! The ship you see is not the one she was on but one they passed when they left port!

The page will get changed again because due to a Hurricane, the ship rerouted to the Bahamas!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories - Speed Scrap Time

2011-10-25T00:05:00.000-05:00

I love the My Memories Facebook page Speed Scrap on Sunday evenings (8 pm Eastern/7 pm Central). This week we learned how to insert an image as word art. Part of the challenge is finding a photo and a font that work well together. I finally settled on a picture of the cruise ship older daughter is on. And I changed it up a little from the page I posted on the My Memories FB page. Older daughter might be a bit surprised when she comes home!

The Big Day

2011-10-24T00:05:00.000-05:00

Not only is Younger Daughter making her big move from Michigan to Tennessee today, but it is my DH's Birthday! Happy Birthday, DH! Welcome to Tennessee, Younger Daughter!!

My Memories Wednesday Challenge - Not Picture Perfect!

2011-10-22T00:08:00.000-05:00

This week's challenge on the My Memories Suite blog is to take a picture that didn't come out as nicely as you expected. Well, I have to tell you, there was no doubt in my mind which picture that would be. The picture was part of a package we received when Younger Daughter had her high school graduation photos taken. My favorite picture is still the one where I look practically perfect and everyone else is sort of squinty-eyed!

My Memories Freebie Friday!

2011-10-21T00:05:00.000-05:00

As I said in last week's post, my friends at MyMemories.com are offering free quick pages. These, as I may have neglected to mention, are limited editions and are only available for a short time. And they are so nice.

Today's selection is another lovely two-page spread. And this time, I did something just a little different with it.

I usually work in letter size and I did resize this page to fit that format. I'm really happy with the result.

After resizing and adding the photos - word wrapped text and title, I added these cute little circles. You can add anything you want to these quick pages, and tweak it to your satisfaction. Oh - and the title? I always bevel the title, because it gives it that really nice, shiny, 3-D image, especially after you add the shadow. I'm getting where I add shadow to everything.

Don't you just love these freebies? Go here to download the freebie. Remember it is only available for a short time. Stay tuned on Fridays for more exclusive kits!

(Don't have MyMemories Suite? Click on the $10 off button, use my code and save $10. It is a terrific program and very easy to use.)

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

MyMemories - The Tutorials

2011-10-20T10:59:00.003-05:00

One of the neat things about MyMemories.com is the availability of tutorials. Presented by Lisa Jurrens - Lisa J - They are relatively short tutorials you can watch online or print the accompanying .pdf file and follow along. I watched two the other day - one on "Ordering and Alignment." I did have a slight grasp on ordering - but this tutorial actually explained the difference between sending an embellishment back and sending it backward. Subtle difference, but highly important.

The other tutorial, "Clustering & How it's Done!" took me step-by-step through building a page. It's funny, I've done similar things with real paper and embellishments, but I think this gave my page a great look.

The tutorials are available through the My Memories Blog - just click on the Tutorials tab at the top of the page.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories - Freebie Fridays!

2011-10-15T18:01:00.001-05:00

Yeah, I know it is Saturday, but truly, we were out of town and I just could not find the time to really do justice to this post.

My good friends at My Memories have started Share the Freebies and this allows me to share with you selected freebies once a week! Yes, they do post free kits regularly, and they have Fan Fridays on their Facebook page too, and now Share the Freebies. These freebies are designed to work as two-page-spread Quick Pages. And I have a beautiful one to share with you today. As you can see - it is two pages with the same theme that will allow you to do a beautiful two page spread.

This is what I did with it. I had pictures from my retirement party and from the party we had when my friend/co-worker Jolanta left the library where we both worked.The only things I added to the pages were the word art titles and the photo captions. The word art looks a lot like the gold element and I did that using the bevel feature in the word art wizard. The photo captions was part of this week's Text Wrap Challenge. Make sure you click on the images to see the captioning. I think it was a work of art - fitting for these wonderful quick pages.

Aren't these sweet? You can get these free pages here. Don't yet have MyMemories? Use my code on the sidebar and save $10.

Be sure to watch for these freebies every Friday!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories Suite V2 Tutorials - Wednesday Challenge

2011-10-12T20:06:00.003-05:00

I have been having lots of fun with MyMemories Suite version 2. In fact today I watched a tutorial on word wrapping text for a different look for journaling. Especially if you want the picture to say it all! Here is my example with my journaling following the frame. Click on the image to view it full size. Don't forget to use your browser's back button to return here.

It's just a simple little page, but it was fun to learn a new skill and to design the page myself. This is such a sweet program.

The nice people at My Memories gave me a code for my followers to use to order the program and save $10. To me saving this $10 is so much more, especially when you start exploring the free kits, papers, embellishments and quick pages you can download.

Follow the link here and be sure to use my code to get your $10 off!

MyMemories Suite

MyMemories Blog Frame Challenge

2011-10-06T19:55:00.000-05:00

I rarely participate in these challenges, but I had a photo of younger daughter's 20th birthday I wanted to put on a scrapbook page. I'm really happy with how it turned out. The only requirement was that you had to incorporate a frame. Gee, that was tough!

My Memories Suite Winner!

2011-10-01T09:14:00.000-05:00

The contest is closed and the entries verified! The winner is .. drum roll, please:

MICHELLE GOODRUM!

Michelle said...: Wow! You got me. I tried Photoshop Elements for scrapbooking and got so frustrated I gave up. These templates are beautiful. I think my favorite is the " Rescue me pack" because it put a smile on my face.

But I also liked the " aged to perfection" and the " summertime deco papers".

I hope I win!

Michelle: You will love this program. Not only are there many wonderful kits for purchase, but the collection of Free Kits is awesome!

Share The Memories Giveaway

2011-09-30T10:06:00.001-05:00

Have you entered for your chance to win free scrapbooking software? This is a $40 value, and I can assure you the program is wonderful. Go here to see how to win!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

October Freebie Calendar

2011-09-30T00:05:00.001-05:00

Share the Memories!

2011-09-26T08:36:00.004-05:00

Have you entered for your chance to win a free copy of My Memories Suite? Be sure to go here and see what I've written about it!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

My Memories Software Review & Giveaway

2011-09-24T00:05:00.000-05:00

I've recently had the opportunity to try out a new scrapbook program and thought I would share it with you. I've been using a scrapbook program for several years as I am a hybrid scrapbooker - some digital and some actual. I even tried Adobe Photoshop Elements 9. I hated it. It was far too complicated for what I wanted to do. My original program, Scrapbook Factory Deluxe v. 3 was okay, but a lot of the elements included in the program couldn't be used anywhere else.

Then I was invited to take a look at My Memories Suite v. 2. My first test of a software is to go in and try it without reading the instructions. My Memories Suite passed with flying colors. Not that the instructions weren't helpful, but I was able to construct a page without reading the instructions at all. And unlike other programs, this digital scrapbooking software uses .jpeg files and is compatible with just about any image file. You have an image you want to turn into a background? With My Memories Suite you can take any image you own or scanned and turn it into an embellishment or background. And just because you are producing a digital scrapbook doesn't mean you can't add your own bling, like ribbons, buttons & bows!

With My Memories Suite you have so many choices. Not only can you use the standard 12 x 12 and 8 x 8 formats, but you can use 8.5 x 11 portrait or landscape formats. I've been scrapbooking in 8.5 x 11 for years and have always been happy with the results, but if you are a square format user, with My Memories Suite you can upload them and have them professionally printed and bound. I think the prices are very reasonable too! If you want to print your own stuff, you can do that too! That's why I use the letter size pages - I can print them at home and put them in my own albums. And did I tell you that it is Windows and Mac compatible?

Here is a quick page layout - one of the freebies I picked up off the site - that I am using as part of a thank you card. It was so easy. And there are tutorials. Follow the link, and you will see several tutorials on using the program. One is a general one that shows you the basic capabilities of version 2. Then there are the tutorials by pinktoque. She has great tutorials for version 1 and an overview of version 2. Well worth the time and effort, by someone not connected with the company. I just can't express how much I like this program.

I am so excited that I can share this program with you that one lucky reader of my blog will win a free downloadable copy of the software. That's a $39.97 value. Really!

How do you win? It's simple:

1. First, become a follower of my blog if you aren't already.

2. Second, visit MyMemories and take a look at all the digital kits and return to this blog and tell me which one is your favorite. Tell your friends. You have until midnight CST on September 30th to enter.

If you are too impatient and want your own copy now? Visit MyMemories and use this code and you will get a $10 discount STMMMS18876.

Share the Memories!! Give-away!!

2011-09-23T00:05:00.000-05:00

Country Roads, Take Me Home!

2011-09-18T00:05:00.000-05:00

DH and I are back - a day early - from our trip that took us up to Williamsville, New York then down to Winchester, Virginia. We had such a good time visiting a cousin of DH (first cousin once removed) that we had to keep reminding ourselves about "lake effect snows" up there. They don't measure their snowfall in inches but in feet. Not being a winter sport lover, that doesn't attract us. Williamsville is a very walkable and sociable town. It seems like there is always something going on there. DH's cousin walked our fannies off. I mean, really, we did a lot of walking. I'm not sure which was my favorite walk, but the Losson Park walk we took was probably my favorite. We walked at least three miles and headed back early when we heard thunder and then saw lightning. Somehow standing under the trees didn't seem smart. We encountered a wild turkey, a snake and three deer on the nature walk. I tried to get photos of the turkey but he's just too far away. With the snake, I just was not fast enough.

Winchester, Virginia was supposed to be a trip to the archives and then a trip down to Belle Grove Plantation in Middletown, Virginia to see the home of my great-great-great-great-great-great grandfather's grandson, Major Isaac Hite. Built in 1796-97, it was used as a field hospital during the battle of Cedar Creek in 1864. And it's where General Jubal Early died. The picture on the right was taken by me as DH obligingly stopped so I could get a good picture of the place. Lunch that day was in Strasburg, Virginia another charming little town. We spent 3 days and 4 nights in Winchester. We enjoyed every minute of it.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Hi, Neighbor!

2011-09-16T15:14:00.001-05:00

While on vacation in the Shenandoah valley of Virginia, DH and I drove down to Strasburg, Virginia to have lunch before touring Belle Grove Plantation, the home of a distant relative. We found the coolest place downtown called "Hi Neighbor!" and chose that for our lunch spot.

What a wise decision! I had salmon cakes that were so good. DH had a taco salad that was huge and delicious. Overall I would say the Shenandoah valley is full of charm and character. I am enjoying communing with my ancestors!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Highways & Byways!

2011-09-14T00:05:00.000-05:00

DH and I are traveling. After having spent a few days in the land of Buffalo Wings visiting with one of his cousins, we headed south towards Virginia. I admit, after all the driving on the interstate system, I was tired of toll roads, interstates and rest areas. Instead, we headed down 219 through the lower western tier of New York state and into Pennsylvania. Good choice as we stopped for lunch at a little roadside place and discovered a woodcarver! You know the kind I mean, the kind that carves with a chainsaw! Amazing. I think that is one of the things I would love to learn to do, but I really value my limbs!

Make sure you click on the photo, so you can see the amazing work these carvers do. The castle and dragon are outstanding. Use your browser's back button to return to this blog.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

I'm a Travelin' Man .. er Woman!

2011-09-09T07:18:00.001-05:00

Woo Hoo! DH and I are on the road. On the itinerary first is Buffalo - really Williamsville, New York - where DH has a first cousin once removed. One I found through working his family tree!

Next up if the flood waters don't reach that far is Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Lastly, is a trip to Winchester-Strasburg-Middletown, Virginia. This is the area where my Bowmans and Hites lived.

I always like to do a custom cover for our trip-tiks and this one is a pre-made template from Scrapbook Factory Deluxe.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Crafter Alert!

2011-09-04T13:44:00.004-05:00

Hey! Terri at My Need to Craft is celebrating her Blogoversary on October 6th! Help her get to her goal of 200 followers and you just might be the winner of a $20 Joann's Gift Card.

Keeping Cool!

2011-09-02T15:45:00.002-05:00

It is just too hot to do anything outside here in middle Tennessee. Doesn't summer know that it is almost Labor Day and it should cool off? Really, these upper 90's temperatures are just too much.

I should be working on organizing for an upcoming trip and cleaning house, but instead I hit the link on the SVG Cuts blog the other day and saw a 25% coupon and went surfing for a great poinsettia SVG. I knew if anyone would have it, they would. And sure enough they did -- and so much more. I ended up with the 3D Wintergreens file (look under 3D flowers) and the Memory Garden Design Elements. These are such great high quality SVG files designed to work with Sure Cuts A Lot. I can't wait to use them!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Calendar Freebie for September

2011-08-31T00:05:00.004-05:00

Scrapbooking! (part eight)

2011-08-26T00:05:00.000-05:00

These are the last two of the pages I completed at the Scrapbook Luau. Well, started at the Scrapbook Luau. In the Vacation Theme - first Disney World - this was a day trip to Lansing, Michigan from our former home in Redford Township, Michigan to see the Doctor Who Tour. Yes, we were and still are huge Doctor Who fans. And of course, we not only dragged our kids along, but also Heather, their friend and the girl I babysat while we lived in Redford.

I can't think but how lame the inside picture of the heart of the Tardis - the engine - looks when you compare it to the current incarnation. This was 1987 and special effects the look of the engine have changed tremendously.

How appropriate we travel back in time ... The first page background is from the Paper Studio miscellaneous 8.5 x 11 pack. The second page is made from DCWV's "Green Stack." I always thought it was great that Nyssa (Sarah Sutton) was there for pictures and autographs. Nyssa's stay with the Doctor started during the Fourth Doctor (Tom Baker) and ended with the Fifth Doctor (Peter Davison.)

I would have thought that the Doctor Who Tour would have just been a sidebar and not really an event in Older Daughter's life. DH an I are both pleased she chose these pictures for her album.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Scrapbooking! (part seven)

2011-08-25T00:05:00.000-05:00

Today's pages are also from our trip to Disney World in 1988. I can't believe its been 23 years. One of the weirdest memories I have from that trip is our afternoon swim was always punctuated by rain. Not a full-blown rain like we experienced almost every morning - after all it was Hurricane season - but more than a sprinkle. As soon as mommy got in the water though, it would stop. How weird was that? So I would be stretched out by the pool with DH watching the kids when I would hear "Mommy get in the water." So I would jump in and sure enough the rain would stop!

Today's pages were constructed with Paper Studio textured cardstock and their All Season stack. I just love the bright colors. The lettering, cut out on my Cricut, is Disney Park. This was another of the fonts I got from Scrapping Table. The green ribbon is also from Paper Studio. I used Paper Studio's Clear stamps for the word stamps.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Scrapbooking! (part 6)

2011-08-23T22:05:00.000-05:00

Disney World! In 1988, we booked the family trip for July. Our destination - the Disney World resort in Orlando, Florida. I'm not too sure who was more excited, the kids or the adults.

Knowing how packed the parks would be, the first thing we did was drill our room number and the name of the resort into the kids heads. If you were to ask them now where we stayed in Disney World, you would hear a resounding report of "CLUB VILLA 720."

For these first two pages I again used the "Penny Lane" collection from My Mind's Eye. I used a Mickey Mouse Ears font that I obtained from the Scrapping Table. Thanks Michelle!

On the second page, I used the letters from The Mickey Mouse Ears font. The butterfly is from K&Co. The flowers came from my table-mate Carrie at the Scrapbook Luau. I suspect they are from K&Co also. Thanks, Carrie!

Make sure you click on the images to see a larger image. Don't forget to use your browser's back button to return to this blog.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Scrapbooking! (part five)

2011-08-23T00:06:00.001-05:00

As I said before, I broke up the book into events and now we are headed into the birthdays. Each girl picked out the pictures they wanted from the bins and bins of photos and I am working with that.

The birthday years were all done with My Mind's Eye "Penny Lane." Have I said how much I love those papers? The ribbon is from Paper Studio, the butterfly is from K&Co.

The numbers were cut from open stock paper from Paper Studio. When I first started scrapbooking again, I was buying open stock papers until I found some stacks that I really liked. I can't say I lean towards any one company, but find I really like My Mind's Eye.

Make sure you click on the images to see the detail. Use your browser's back button to return to this blog.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Scrapbooking! (part four)

2011-08-22T00:05:00.000-05:00

Okay, we are finally moving beyond the first two years. I more or less have the book divided into events, but this next page is from her third year. Well, the last one she is a little older. Maybe six? The first picture is with her Teddy. She still has Teddy. She got him from her baby sister when she was three. She actually got to pick him out. The paper is again from DCWV's "Green Stack/"

The next picture is at Christmas with the princess telephones that were like walkie talkies. We all had fun with those.

And the last picture I could date because she is wearing one of the sun suits we bought in Cincinnati after we forgot to pack the girls' suitcases in the car. To this day, I can't drive past Sidney, Ohio without hearing "I hope you remembered to pack our suitcases!" We hadn't. Quick trip to Sears and sales stocked us up with enough hot weather clothes for them for the few days down there. Including PJ's, underwear, etc. Fortunately their bathing suits were in a separate bag.

The next page is again My Mind's Eye "Penny Lane." I added the eyes to the owls with Paper Studio brads.The "When I Grow Up I Want to Be" was cut from the 'Simply Delightful' stack from My Mind's Eye. I have used this stack for so much.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Oops! Pardon My Memory

2011-08-21T16:43:00.000-05:00

At the beginning of this Scrapbooking theme I started here I mentioned I couldn't remember where on earth I got the fancy Daughter title. I got it from Denise's Scrapbooking Room blog here. I apologize to Denise for not checking sooner. She has some beautiful stuff that she shares and these titles are just gorgeous! Thanks Denise!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Scrapbooking! (part three)

2011-08-21T08:55:00.000-05:00

The next two pages were done with DCWV's "Green Stack." One of my favorite stacks because of the critters and such on the pages. Again, I do not scrapbook in 12 x 12 pages, so I always have to make some sort of adjustments to the pages, like cutting cute corners off. I think I compensated well with the owl ribbon.

The second page I just tweaked by cutting the Green Stack with my Cricut to give it a nice edge and tucked the images under that. A few little blingy additions to the tree leaves and the Pigtails word art was done with My Mind's Eye "Simply Delightful" stack. When I went through the pictures and started pulling the ones I wanted for Older Daughter's scrapbook, I was amazed at how many pictures we had of her with pigtails!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Scrapbooking! (part two)

2011-08-19T08:40:00.000-05:00

I had fun putting this first page together and I have to say it's one of my favorites. It has something to do with the last photo! Again, the paper is My Mind's Eye "Penny Lane." The pink cardstock is Fiskars. The cloth flowers were blog candy I won and the brads attaching them to the paper are Paper Studio. If you click on the picture and see it full size, you just might make out the glittery accents.

The "Silly Monkey" paper is also Paper Studio open stock, the polka dot ribbon is also from Paper Studio.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Scrapbooking!

2011-08-18T12:14:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday, as previously mentioned, I attended the 4th Annual MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Scrapbooking Luau. This was the second one I attended and again, I really enjoyed it. It is so nice to be able to sit and scrapbook and chat with other like-minded individuals without the constant interruptions of home. And no, I am not a mother of a preschooler. My kiddies are just either side of 30.

This year's project for me was to take photos my older daughter had selected for her album and put some in a scrapbook for her. I did 15 pages! Well, not totally as some titles and journaling was left off in favor of getting the pages constructed. Today I will share with you the first two pages.

The first page introduces our older daughter and the paper used was some Paper Studio miscellaneous packs and My Mind's Eye "Penny Lane." For the life of me, I am drawing a blank on where I got the SVG file for Daughter, but I really like how it turned out. The Penny Lane is card stock and glittery, so I am sure I am going to need to put a new blade in my Cricut for it.

The second page also used paper from Penny Lane, that and some shapes cut on my Cricut.

I did experiment on further pages, sometimes using part of a 12 x 12 scrapbook paper and sometimes using 8.5 x 11 paper. I do the scrapbooks in letter size format, which I prefer. To me the 12 x 12 books are just too big!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Stay Tuned

2011-08-14T11:59:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I attended the 4th annual Scrapbooking Luau held at a local church. It ran from 9 am until 8 p.m. I did sixteen pages, some of which need a bit of tweaking as in titles and journaling. Stay tuned and I will post pictures, I promise.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Today is the Day!

2011-08-13T00:04:00.000-05:00

Today is the day of the 4th Annual Scrapbooking Luau put on by the MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers) group at one of the local churches. I am so excited. Last year, I attended and worked on scrapbook pages from 9 am until 8 pm. This year will be a challenge as the menu is not very diabetic friendly, so I am making sure I pack some snacks for me.

New this year is free internet access donated by Frontier, so I am considering hauling the laptop with me.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

What Do You Get?

2011-08-12T00:21:00.002-05:00

What do you get when you mix this?

And this?

I'm Walkin ...

2011-08-05T00:04:00.000-05:00

DH and I have been urged to walk by our doctors. His wants him to work up to between 3 and 5 miles per day (eeek!) Mine is just glad to hear that I am walking. So for the past week we have been walking indoors at the Hooper Eblen center at Tennessee Tech. And we aren't alone. Every morning/afternoon that we've walked there we've seen other walkers. The only time we've seen the same people are the group of young moms there with their kids in strollers. It sure beats walking in 90+ humid degrees outside. And it is level! Eventually the weather will change and the hubs and I will take our walking outside and onto the hills. Seriously, I don't think you can walk outside anywhere around here without running into a hill. I must say that I look forward to cooler weather only because I hate walking around in circles over and over again to reach my distance goal for that day!

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Kids & Kits

2011-08-04T00:04:00.034-05:00

I was over at Free Digital Scrapbooking blog and saw the layout for their August challenge and couldn't resist trying something similar in my Scrapbook Factory Deluxe program. I don't do a lot of digital scrapbooking, but every so often I like to play with it. I love playing with layouts, and the Scrapbook Luau is coming up next weekend, so thought I would give this one a try. It is meant for a 12 x 12 page, but I only work in 8.5 x 11. You can see that I substituted a different shape for the picture background.

The subjects are my daughters and their cats, AKA my grandkitties. Belle's mommy is Andrea, while Luna and Tonks are Sara's kitties. All three of the grandkitties are on the smaller size. All three are adorable.

The paper is from FreeDigitalScrapbooking as are the alphabet letters and the bric-a-brac. The photo frames are from Scrapbook Factory Deluxe as well as the solid and multicolor backgrounds.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

August Desktop Calendar

2011-07-31T00:05:00.003-05:00

Robert's Crafts is Having a Giveaway!

2011-07-30T08:51:00.000-05:00

Which is good for a $25 gift card or a coupon code if you are not local. Tell them I sent you!
Roberts Crafts Giveaway

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

While Waiting at the Drugstore ...

2011-07-28T12:00:00.001-05:00

While waiting at the drugstore today for a script to be filled, DH and I saw a display for extra soft paper towels, and I wondered, "What the heck ?" And I stood there trying to figure out why we needed extra soft paper towels. I assured myself that my windows and countertops could really care less if I used extra soft paper towels on them.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational

Part of a Card

2011-07-26T00:01:00.000-05:00

Click on Image for better view

The front of a card I made for someone the other day. The paper is from My Mind's Eye - Penny Lane. I love that stack. It has glittery accents.

Copyright 2011, ACK, for Generational